"With the evolution of the food supply chain, software and technology providers are playing a more critical role in addressing needs such as end-to-end visibility and collaboration, traceability, regulatory compliance, risk management, sustainability, and cost containment," notes Lara L. Sowinski, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics. "Technology is the competitive differentiator for companies in our industry who need to stay ahead of dynamic changes in the marketplace."

CombineNet's ASAP® product is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) e-sourcing solution that helps buyers at supply chain driven companies work more collaboratively with suppliers to effect significant procurement innovations and improvements.

For food manufacturing, distribution, and retailing industries, CombineNet ASAP is a best of breed solution for the procurement of:

Transportation services across all modes

Packaging materials for both primary and secondary food product packaging

Food ingredients used in direct materials

Indirect materials including equipment, MRO, and fleet vehicles

Corporate and facility services

"From drought conditions to the rising costs of fuel and a variety of issues in between, this has been a year of challenge for food companies and their supply chain partners," said Rich Wilson, CombineNet's Chief Executive Officer. "CombineNet has answered the food industry's demands with strategic sourcing solutions that leverage best practices for Food Manufacturers as well as for Restaurant Chain Industries."

CombineNet's e-sourcing solutions are used by eight of the top 15 global food manufacturers, five of the world's largest beverage manufacturers, and 9 of the leading global restaurant chains. The final FL100 recipients are featured in the November/December 2012 issue of Food Logistics, as well as online at http://www.foodlogistics.com/article/10837645/the-2012-fl100.